Hiphop maestro Gloc-9 teams up with Yeng Constantino anew for an explosive collab single “Paliwanag”

We all aspire to live the ideal life where we can be safe, be content, and be at peace. But while having these all may be wishful thinking; we can always look forward to better days by the choices we make. Our fate, after all, has always been in our hands. Nevertheless, here’s a sheer reminder that our choices really matter.


Gloc-9’s latest single “Paliwanag” featuring Yeng Constantino is a refreshing rap track filled with cryptic poetry, non-specific, yet filled with truths regarding life’s many pitfalls, yet hopeful as it alludes that we are the masters of our destiny. It is all a matter of choices; hopefully, the right ones.


“Sabihin mo / Darating ba ang araw / Na di ka takot iwanan ang mga mahal mo / Sa bahay na hindi sila mababasa tuwing malakas ang bagyo / Darating ba ang araw na ‘di kailangang itago ang mga yapak mo / Kailangang lumayo yumuko mag pasawalang kibo / Pag tinatanong ang karapatan mo…,” the Makata sa Pinas reflects.


When asked how he was able to write this new masterpiece, Gloc-9 shared that he just weaved his poetry based on his own daily observations, with so much empathy towards our ordinary countrymen. He also clarified that “Paliwanag” isn’t not trying to be preachy or self-righteous.


“Triny ko lang din hukayin kung ano ‘yung malamang na nararamdaman ng karamihan sa mga kababayan natin. If you listen to the song ‘di ko rin ine-exclude ang sarili ko pagdating pag-ako ng mga mistakes sa nakaraan. Kasama ako doon. Ayun din naman ang lagi kong goal, I try not to be preachy sa mga kanta. Kung mayroon man talaga akong gusto kong ihatid ay kung ano talaga ang nararamdaman ko at malamang nararamdaman din ng mga marami sa mga kababayan natin,” the rapper explains.


Yeng shares, “We have the power bilang mamamayan to decide. And siguro nga parang ‘yon ‘yung parang naging impact sa akin. Noong natanggap ko na ‘yung final mix nito, ‘pag pumupunta ako ng work pinapatugtog ko ‘to lagi tapos walang palya, every time lalo na doon sa pinaka passionate part ng kanta which is ‘yung sa huli, talagang naiiyak ako. And ‘yon ‘yung gusto natin na impact. I agree with kuya Gloc na we’re not here to preach to anyone kasi iba-iba ng pinaniniwalaan.”
She also hopes that people will find this song just as impactful and eye-opening. “Kung ano man ang maging interpretasyon ng mga tao sa kantang ‘to, may it lead to something beautiful and maghahango sa kanila sa kung saang dilim sila naroroon. Yung mga questions na ‘ano ba ang kaya kong gawin at this moment as a powerful person, sa desisyon ko na maglelead din sa change rin ng life ko,” Yeng adds.


This is Gloc-9’s first release as he comes back home to Universal Records after his two-year stint as an independent artist. Also, it’s his second official collaboration with Yeng after over a decade. The two teamed for an equally socially aware song “Bugtog” off the rapper’s acclaimed Talumpati album in 2011.


Thyro Alfaro helmed the musical arrangement of “Paliwanag”, while the concept of its dazzling music video was from the guys of Youmeus MNL and was directed by Amiel Kirby Balagtas.


“Paliwanag” is now out on all streaming platforms. The song is just one of his many releases this year under UR so watch out for more singles later this year.


And guess what, you’ll hear this one here first. This is just the first track of his upcoming 25th anniversary album which will be titled PILAK.

Grammy nominated artists, Saweetie, visits the Philippines in new music video ‘Closer’ feat. fellow Fil-Am award winning artist, H.E.R

Grammy-nominated star and Filipino-American Saweetie teams up with fellow Filipino-American and R&B chart-topper H.E.R. for a breezy, sensual new single, “Closer.” The dance-infused track finds the duo serving up playful lines and seductive melodies, reaffirming Saweetie’s penchant for making hits that feel nostalgic, yet uniquely hers. Listen to “Closer” on ICY/Warner Records HERE. They also unveiled the blockbuster music video to the track last February 15, a post-Valentines treat to all their lovely fans in the Philippines and across the world!

In the music video (directed by Hanna Lux Davis), Saweetie and H.E.R. take themselves (and their icy friends) on a trip around the world via ICY Airlines! Saweetie pulls stops at Paris, Tokyo and of course, the Philippines – living life to the fullest – with whirlwind romances and lots, and lots of shopping involved! To date, the video has accumulated 4.6 million views on YouTube!

Coasting above funky electric guitar, Saweetie lays out a blueprint for fun: “I wanna fall in love for the weekend/Three boyfriends I don’t know where I’m sleeping/We be thuggin’, clubbin’, f*ckin’/Order room service when we done, that’s the sequence.” H.E.R.’s breathy, emotive hook is a fitting accompaniment. With a beat designed to soundtrack a dancefloor, and lyrics that call you there, “Closer” is a mesmerizing single that demands to be repeated. The track is also yet another reason to be excited about Saweetie’s forthcoming debut album, Pretty Bitch Music.

“Closer” only continues Saweetie’s recent streak of dynamic hits. Before this, she unloaded “Icy Chain,” a glitchy, self-assured song she performed on Saturday Night Live in November. Over the past couple of years, she’s also built momentum with infectious tracks like “Best Friend” with Doja Cat and “Back to the Streets” with Jhené Aiko. She also recently contributed “Get It Girl” to Issa Rae’s Insecure: Music from the HBO Original Series Season 5. And in 2021 she shared “Attitude,” a confident track that appears on the soundtrack to Halle Berry’s Bruised.

It’s all proof of Saweetie’s knack for club anthems filled with memorable hooks and aspirational images of wealth — a.k.a., an Icy Girl lifestyle. Since breaking out with her 2017 single “Icy Girl,” she’s unloaded an almost uncountable number of hits expanding her vision of what that lifestyle entails. Her undeniable impact has led to plenty of GRAMMY® Awards buzz with two nominations for Best Rap Song “Best Friend” and Best New Artist, making Billboard, Variety, and more nominations prediction lists. In addition to partnerships with McDonald’s, MAC, Crocs, and more, Saweetie won a 2021 MTV VMA for Art Direction on “Best Friend,” 2021 BET Hip-Hop Award for “Hustler of the Year” and was nominated for an American Music Award and a People’s Choice Award. With “Closer” at her back and her debut album, Pretty Bitch Music, on the way, Saweetie is in a prime position to make 2022 her best year yet.

Zack Tabudlo claims the top two spots in Billboard’s first-ever ‘Hits of the World: Philippines’ Chart

Zack Tabudlo, the hitmaker behind songs such as “Binibini” and “Nangangamba,” has claimed the top two spots in Billboard’s newest worldwide chart ‘Hits of the World’. This weekly chart ranks the top 25 songs in more than 40 countries based on streaming and digital sales.

Zack’s song “Pano” claims the #1 spot, while “Habang Buhay” follows at #2. His other songs, “Binibini” and “Nangangamba,” also entered the chart at #13 and #18 respectively. This makes Zack the first Filipino act with the most tracks simultaneously charting on Hits of the World: Philippines.

Zack has also announced that he will be performing on the main stage of the Expo 2020 Dubai on Sunday, February 20th, 2022. The Expo 2020 Dubai is a World Expo that inspires people by showcasing the best of collaboration and innovation from around the world. It is currently happening from October 1, 2021, to March 31, 2022.

Clara Benin appears on billboard in New York City’s Times Square

A month ahead of International Women’s Day, Filipino singer-songwriter Clara Benin lands on a Times Square, New York billboard as part of Spotify’s EQUAL Campaign.


The global movement, which serves as an initiative of the music streaming platform to amplify the work of outstanding women and gender-nonconforming musicians, turned its spotlight on Benin as this week’s cover artist of Spotify EQUAL Playlist in the Philippines, with two of her songs, “blink” and “Araw’t Gabi” occupying the top two slots.


“I feel really humbled to be featured on a Times Square billboard in New York and to have my songs be part of Spotify’s EQUAL playlist alongside these lovely and talented women,” the folk-pop phenom shares in a statement. “I really hope our music reaches and inspires more people from all over the world.”


Having amassed more than 30 million streams on Spotify alone, Clara Benin is the first Filipino signed under Sony Music’s OFFMUTE— a Southeast Asian record label that’s entirely dedicated to giving artists a voice, an audience, and an opportunity for cross-collaboration within the region.


Benin recently released a new single called “blink,” which was produced by acclaimed electronic/indie artist The Ringmaster, and features prolific multi-instrumentalist Gabba Santiago on drums. Honoring memories like a fundamental aspect of human nature, the song finds refuge in reliving Benin’s past without any hint of regret.
She is also currently working on several new songs to be released soon. “I’ve been writing a lot the past two years and very excited to work on them this year for an upcoming album.”

Domination: Gigi De Lana & Gigi Vibes Live

Join Gigi De Lana & the Gigi Vibes band on their very first headlining concert with LIVE audience which will be held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in Resorts World Manila on March 5, 2022.

“Domination” is ABS-CBN Events’ first live concert with audiences to be present at the venue since the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020. Joining ABS-CBN Events is Resorts World Manila as co-producer.

New updates: Jed Madela will be the special guest for Gigi De Lana & Gigi Vibes LIVE Manila show on March 5. 2022. Also, the streaming of the show on KTX will be moved to April 23, 2022. All KTX tickets from Mar. 5 date will be honored on April 23rd show date.


ABS-CBN Events & Resorts World Manila presents
DOMINATION
Gigi De Lana & Gigi Vibes LIVE
March 5, 2022 – 8:00pm
Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resorts World Manila

TICKET PRICES
Platinum – Php8,000
SVIP – Php7,000
VIP – Php6,000
Gold – Php5,000
Silver – Php3,500
Bronze – Php1,500

Tickets are now available via Ticketworld online

Note: Only fully vaccinated guest aged 12 years and up are allowed inside the theater.


DOMINATION
Gigi De Lana & Gigi Vibes
Streamed Concert
April 23, 2022 – 8:00pm
KTX.PH

TICKET PRICES
**SVIP – Php695
*VIP – Php495
Regular – Php195 (main concert link only)

Inclusive:
**SVIP – Gigi De Lana Docu-Concert, Zoom After-party access with request portion, main concert link
*VIP – Gigi De Lana Docu-Concert, main concert link

BOOK TICKETS

Michael Bublé to help a lucky Filipino fan with their Valentines confession

It’s love month, and multi-Grammy winning superstar Michael Bublé is joining in the celebration. He wants to help YOU make the best love confession ever!

Warner Music Philippines, in partnership with TikTok Philippines, launches #INNLY (short for I’ll Never Not Love You) where lucky Filipino fans can get a chance to receive a personalized video from Michael Buble for their significant other, plus a Valentines package to enjoy together. This Valentines gimmick is part of the social platform’s love month campaign this 2022, #TikTokPusuanMo. More information here.

This follows his announcement that he will be releasing HIGHER, his 11th studio album on Warner Records / Reprise Records on March 25th. Pre-order HERE.

Bublé’s first single, “I’ll Never Not Love You” finds the multi-Grammy, multi-Juno and multi-platinum selling global superstar entertainer at the peak of his vocal and creative powers.

Produced by Greg Wells and Bob Rock along with Alan Chang, Jason ‘Spicy G’ Goldman and Sir Paul McCartney, HIGHER is Bublé’s first studio album in three years and follows his hugely successful sold out two-year global “An Evening With Michael Bublé Tour” as well as the 10th year of the massive success of his classic Christmas album.

Standouts on the new album include a magical duet with Willie Nelson of his song “Crazy,” a Bublé heartfelt version of the Sir Paul McCartney penned song “My Valentine” (produced by McCartney), the Bob Dylan classic “Make You Feel My Love,” and three Bublé penned originals including the new single “I’ll Never Not Love You.” Other highlights are Bublé’s take on the Sam Cooke’s classic “Bring It On Home To Me,” “You’re The First, The Last, My Everything,” and the joyous “A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square.” The album closes with a dramatic and breathtaking version of “Smile” accompanied by a gospel choir.

Commented Bublé, “This time out, I opened myself up completely to trying new things. I dug deeper while working and surrounding myself with the greatest music makers on the planet with gigantic imaginations. Whether it was sitting down to write with Ryan Tedder and Greg Wells, recording three songs in one day with my pal Bob Rock along with 40 of the most amazing musicians off the studio floor who hadn’t played music in 15 months, dancing around laughing and crying in my underwear in my home studio when a song sounded just right, every moment felt magical or that the universe was conspiring to bring me to this moment in time 20 years into this amazing ride I’ve been on. I have never been more excited after completing an album.”

“Michael Bublé is a great dance partner. He gives me lots of credit but I credit him for opening up his trust to try working with a new team. He’s a phenomenal hitmaker,” commented Greg Wells.

Added Bob Rock, “Since I’ve worked with him, this was the most focused and inspired Michael has been. He understood the record he wanted to make. He had a clear vision. As soon as we started, he stuck his neck out to make each song get to the place that he was hearing it in his head.”

Michael Bublé started singing at age four in his family’s home in Burnaby, Canada and hasn’t stopped since that time. His self-titled debut album on Reprise Records was released in 2005. A series of multi-platinum, No. 1 albums followed including Call Me Irresponsible, Crazy Love, To Be Loved and Christmas. His most recent album Love debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top 200. He has sold over 75 million albums during the course of his extraordinary career. His Christmas album, released ten years ago continues to sell and stream in the millions and billions and his voice has become synonymous with the holiday season. As a performer, Bublé has enjoyed enormous success these past several decades as one of the most exciting global touring artists out there with sold out shows in over 30 countries. His most recent tour, “An Evening With Michael Bublé” from 2019-2022 was seen by over a million fans around the world. He loves hockey, fantasy football, TikTok, and singing. He is the proud father of Noah, Eli and Vida.

Zack Tabudlo and Moira Dela Torre team up for “Iba”

Zack Tabudlo, the hit maker behind songs such as “Binibini” and “Nangangamba” is back with a collaboration with Moira Dela Torre, who is known for her memorable “Paubaya” and for also being the most streamed Filipina artist for 4 consecutive years. “Iba” is now released by Island Records Philippines on all music streaming platforms. Tabudlo wrote the music and lyrics.

Zack says that the song is about the feeling someone in a relationship has when they realize that they are unhappy with the love they thought destiny has given them. He says that the song is apt for Valentine’s Day because it reminds people that heartbreak is also part of the experience of love.

When Zack told Moira that he wanted to work with her on a song, she says that she was down for it. The two have been in touch for some time, exchanging messages and compliments on each other’s music, Zack adds. When he recorded the demo for “Iba”, Zack felt this would work as a collaboration, and her contrasting style, he says, makes this song different but “strong and powerful.”

Zack recorded his part of “Iba” and the instrumentation at his home studio, where he also mixed and mastered the final track. Due to COVID restrictions, however, Moira couldn’t join him in the studio, so they arranged a virtual recording session over Zoom. Moira worked with Argee Guerrero (I Belong to the Zoo) as recording engineer while she was at her friend’s house in El Nido, Palawan.

Zack envisioned “Iba” as a song that evokes the sounds of H.E.R. and Ed Sheeran, which he characterizes as “soul, urban, and pop”. He says that this collaboration brings out a different side to Moira’s sound from her usual material. People should listen to this song, he says, because of the contrast between its sad heart-rending lyrics and a melody and beat one could bop to. Moira adds that this song can help release pent-up emotions and make its listeners feel better.

Gigi De Lana stages first LIVE concert in Manila on March 5

Singing sensation Gigi De Lana is ready to rock the concert stage live in her first on-ground concert event “Gigi De Lana and The Gigi Vibes: Domination,” happening on March 5 (Saturday) at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in Resorts World Manila.

“Domination” is ABS-CBN Events’ first live concert with audiences to be present at the venue since the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020. Joining ABS-CBN Events is Resorts World Manila as co-producer.

The concert will also be streaming live on KTX.ph for the enjoyment of the fast-growing fanbase of Gigi and her band, The Gigi Vibes, around the world.

Gigi and The Gigi Vibes will bring not just their musicality on stage but also their charm and fun dynamics and will deliver a fresh repertoire never-before-heard in their online gigs.

One of 2021’s breakthrough stars who headlined the YouTube Music Night and featured as one of the performing artists in 1MX Dubai last December. Gigi welcomed 2022 with a bang with the release of her self-titled debut album featuring her hit single “Sakalam.” She also recently gave life to “Nasa’yo Ako,” the official soundtrack of “Viral Scandal” and “Bakit Nga Ba Mahal Kita,” which serves as the OST of “Hello Heart.”

Those who would like to watch the concert live at the Newport Performing Arts Theater can avail tickets at P8,000 (platinum), P7,000 (SVIP), P6,000 (VIP), P5,000 (gold), P3,500 (silver), and P1,500 (bronze). Meanwhile, online viewers can purchase tickets on http://www.ktx.ph at P695 (SVIP), P495 (VIP), and P195 (regular).

Don’t miss The “Gigi De Lana and The Gigi Vibes: Domination” concert, happening on March 5 (Saturday) at the Newport Performing Arts Theater and streaming live via www.ktx.ph.

For updates, follow @ABSCBNPR on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok or visit www.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

Angelina Cruz releases new single, “Ayoko Lang”

What if you got all the chances to get over someone but your system just rejects that very notion? What if it’s always one step forward, two steps back?

Angelina Cruz’s latest release “Ayoko Lang” is all about that empty feeling, those seemingly endless nights of sadness after a bad breakup. The standout ballad easily captivates in its warm string melody and vulnerable lyrics carefully sung by Angelina and was produced by a Canada-based musician.

Speaking of captivating strings, the guitar player for this track is the ever-talented Filipino-Canadian Ricky Tillo, who rose to fame as the tour guitarist of Lady Gaga.

“Kayang kaya humanap ng iba / Ayoko lang, ayoko lang / Kayang-kayang kalimutan ka / Ayoko lang ayoko lang,” the now 20-year old artist sings.

Since her standout music scene debut in 2017 with her version of “Can’t Help Falling In Love”, Angelina Cruz has been so passionate to capture her listeners’ hearts with her soulful vocals. Her stripped-back cover of “Hanggang Kailan” by Orange & Lemons back in 2018 became a standout hit, now with over 10 million streams on Spotify and counting.

“Ayoko Lang” by Angelina Cruz are now available on all digital streaming platforms under Universal Records.

FOLLOW ANGELINA CRUZ!

Facebook: facebook.com/angelinacruzmontano

Instagram: @angelinaisabele

Twitter: @angelinaisabele

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOGYldKzOZpA5FSaE1V606Q

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4RUeoFWpDZ3IxGR7LYPoYN?si=cc8c74ee7cf24aa3

TikTok: @angelinaisabele

One Click Straight launches a new single and MV “Lilo”

One Click Straight (OCS), a group that describes itself as “Asia’s finest softboi candy pop band”, launches its new single and accompanying music video, “Lilo”. The song continues to emphasize the band’s synth pop sound, evoking smooth Nineties pop in its sonic palette.

Tim and Sam Marquez composed “Lilo”. Sam says that the song was recorded in Daniel Monong’s studio and their home studio. He notes that the track was composed with minimal instrumentation, and what took time was the process of producing the song more than recording it. “It was really fun laying down the tracks for it”, he says.

Tim Marquez says that “Lilo is about cheaters, plain and simple”. He notes that these crazy times see a lot of heartbroken people; those who cheat, he observes, tend to find it easier to do in our online age. The song takes a tongue-in-cheek approachto speak about people who fell in love, who were fooled, and who were hurt.

Along with the new single is a music video, which was produced by Zoopraxi Studio and directed by Dominic Bekaert. Joel Cartera, another member of OCS, says that their director delivered with fun ideas of how to go about this project. The video features Albert Nicolas a.k.a Asian Cutie and Jach Manere. Cartera notes that the video is meant to provide a contrast with the overall vibe of the song. He says, “if the audience gets it, they get it, and if not…rak.”

When we asked about what’s next for OCS in 2022, Sam is excited to say that they’re about to drop their second album. He says that this record promises “new sounds, new songs, and definitely new stories to tell.” It is an exciting year for the band, its fans, and the many people who will discover their music.

Follow One Click Straight

Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Spotify | Youtube